What better way to celebrate the return of hockey then to spend the weekend with the ‘Canes.

We have two games coming up on Saturday and Sunday.Other then great Hurricanes hockey, here are a few things to keep an eye out for at the RBCCenter:

Saturday, November 1, 2008 vs. Edmonton Oilers
The first 10,000 fans will receive a car magnet and magnetic schedule. It is a new giveaway item and a pretty cool 2-1 deal. They come attached and break apart so you can have one for the house and one for the road. Thanks again to Excel Moving and Storage and Allied for sponsoring the giveaway.

Olympic hero Cullen Jones will be in the building. Jones, part of the infamous 4x100 men’s freestyle team at the 2008 Summer Olympics, will be the honorary guest operating the Hurricanes warning siren and signing autographs on the concourse during the first intermission outside of section 108.

Erik Smallwood’s band will be playing at Front Lawn Party II. Hopefully Mother Nature will be more forgiving than she was on Opening Night. Joining the band will be food and beverage for purchase, inflatables, street hockey, ZSpotlight and 99.9 the Fan. Party starts at 1:00 p.m.

The grand prize winner for the Car Flag Program will receive an autographed picture of Cam Ward and Ray Whitney. Twenty runner ups will receive two tickets to an upcoming Hurricanes game.

Sunday, November 2nd vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
The first of three Slap Shot Sunday’s will take place. Kid’s 16 and under will have the opportunity to be on the RBC Center ice and take a shot on goal following the game. It is easy to participate- 1) Visit the Promotions kiosk during the game at section 108/109 to pick up a waiver 2) Bring the signed waiver to the top of 115/115 or 123/123 following the game.

Sunday is Hockey Fights Cancer Night. The community relations department has teamed up with the NHL initiative to raise awareness about cancer and honor those who are battling or help fighting against the horrible disease. Last years Hockey Fights Cancer Night included a moment I will never forget. Before the face-off NC State women’s coach, Kay Yow, dropped the ceremonial first puck and received a standing ovation. Meeting Yow and being in the presence of a true hero and inspiration was a highlight of my professional career.

There are many new faces on the Eye Care Associates Storm Squad this year. As usual members of the team will be roaming the concourse before the game. If you happen to see Anna, Ashley, Courtney, Laura and Lauren feel free to say hello and welcome them to the family.

The ‘Canes will be sporting their black jerseys for the second time this season. If you have not seen them yet, they are the best looking third jerseys in the league. And of course I am not biased!